An 18-year-old Nigerian school girl, Ruth Olajugbade has emerged winner of the 2018 edition of the ‘The Voice UK’, beating another contestant, Donel Mangena to the second spot in the finals which was held on Saturday night.

Ruth, who is a student and a part-time caregiver, was the second favourite behind Mangena going into the final before fighting off the stiff challenges from other finalists to emerge victorious.

She broke down in tears after event’s host, Emma Wills announced her as the winner.  She rendered three incredible performances with her final song, “Dreams” by the Cramberries scheduled to be released as her debut single.

Ruth lives in Southend with her mother, father and little brother, Femi and currently attends the Youth Creation Performing Arts School in Standford-de-Hope. Her prize is  £100,000 as well as a deal with Republic Records.

Influenced by bands such as Bastille, Arctic Monkeys and Emeli Sande, Ruth said she was not expecting to even get to the blind audition talk less of being named as winner.